Version 9.2 of next-gen firewall includes application filter

Dubai-based value-added distributor Comguard today announced the launch of Version 9.2 of its gateProtect next-generation firewall solution.

New features include an integrated application filter in addition to the latest security and network features. Version 9.2 will now offer customers a sustainable solution to cope with changing conditions and future challenges in IT security and data protection, along with its usual reliable performance, security and stability.

Comguard said the upgrade is gateProtect's response to "the fact that these days companies must follow an entirely different approach to managing security risks in IT networks". "Unlike just a few years ago, it is no longer sufficient today to filter data on the basis of ports and protocols and to block individual pages", said Stephan Ziegler, CTO at gateProtect, referring to the need for an application filter.

"Next-generation firewalls must now exercise stricter control over data packages and the information provided in them."

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Recently cyber-attacks have been based on highly specialised software, with complex programming, constant updates and numerous means of penetrating a company's network. Web-based user programs, social networks, microblogging and streaming all offer an ideal target for malware. This type of software makes use of the existing communication structure of the corporate network or the architecture of individual applications and is extremely difficult to trace.

While URL and content filters can only prevent or limit the download of unacceptable pages and content, application filters are able to go into more detail and only block certain aspects of a service or website.

An application filter records the data traffic, evaluates it and analyses the data packages. The company's IT security administrator compiles rules for the network environment on the basis of these results, ensuring that these rules are in keeping with corporate policy and are able to offer maximum protection against possible attacks.

Amarjot Dhanjal, senior business development manager, Comguard said, "With addition of an application filter to URL & Content filters, version 9.2 of gateProtect next-generation UTM firewall will deliver a most comprehensive security solution that can safeguard businesses against the growing menace of security breaches."